Thousands of fans backed the campaign and stayed away from St James’ Park, as Newcastle’s match against Spurs drew the lowest crowd of the season.

The official crowd figure of 47,427 was the worst attendance since August 2013 – and included many season ticket holders who, from the pockets of empty seats, were clearly not in the ground.

Hundreds of them were to be found outside St James’ Park’s Gallowgate End both before and after the game, angrily brandishing banners and calling for Toon owner Mike Ashley to sell the club.

And today supporters from AshleyOut.com warned the latest demonstration was just the start of a long campaign.

A spokesman from the fans’ group said: “The #BoycottSpurs protest was a success but do not forget that this is just the start of what will be a long and sustained campaign to reclaim our club.

“Newcastle United announced the official attendance as 47,427 - Northumbria Police have also confirmed that this was the official figure provided to them by the club. In reality, we all know that this figure is grossly over exaggerated.

“There is simply no way that 47,427 supporters were inside St James’ Park.”